Cat feces may be a huge public health problem

Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that may infect cat poop, has long been known to be a threat to pregnant women and people with immune deficiencies.

In the past few years, studies have emerged linking the parasite to other conditions such as brain problems, schizophrenia, neurosis and brain cancer. The parasite has also been linked to suicide attempts.

A studyout this month in the journalTrends in Parasitology argues that the problem may be even bigger than we realize.

According to the report, more than 1.2 million metric tons of cat feces are deposited in the United States every year. Cats become infected with the parasite when they ingest an infected bird or small mammal. When they poop, tiny particles that contain the parasite can be inhaled by humans who come into contact with it. The massive accumulation of the parasite in the environment, especially for those who are exposed to it often overtime, may pose a significant health risk.

The authors of the report recommend people, and especially children, avoid areas with large amounts of cat poop. This means staying out of sandboxes in playgrounds, or covering them so cats may not access them as if it was a huge toilet. Gardens that cats spend a lot of time in should be assumed to be infected and gardeners should wear gloves and wash their hands when done gardening. As always, pet owners should use a scoop to clean the cat’s box. Pregnant women should avoid that chore.